Eli Manning Admits He Once Thought He Would Play Glen Powell’s Role in “Chad Powers” ‘and Be on the Cover of “PEOPLE”’ (Exclusive)

Eli Manning has recently reflected on his initial expectations regarding the role of Chad Powers in the popular Hulu series, which is inspired by a sketch from his own show, *Eli’s Places*, first aired in 2022. At a recent PaleyLive event in New York City on 3rd September, the former NFL quarterback shared his thoughts during a discussion about the show’s second season. Manning moderated the panel, which also featured stars Glen Powell, Steve Zahn, Frankie A. Rodriguez, and showrunner Michael Waldron.

Manning disclosed that when he first learned about the adaptation of the *Chad Powers* sketch into a television series, he believed he would take on the title role. His excitement was palpable as he recounted a conversation with Powell and Waldron that took place five years prior, when the idea was pitched to him. “I was all about it and I was very excited,” he stated, expressing his enthusiasm about potentially venturing into a Hollywood career.

With a humorous touch, Manning remarked that he thought this would mark the beginning of a significant transition in his life. “I thought I was going Hollywood,” he said, sparking laughter from the audience. The former New York Giants quarterback exaggeratedly described his plans to relocate his family to Los Angeles, fantasising about a glamorous life that included magazine covers and skyrocketing fame.

The light-hearted banter continued as Manning turned to Powell, asking if he ever felt remorseful for “crushing” Manning’s aspirations to star in the show. Powell, who ended up taking on the lead role, responded jokingly, “Eli, this entire tour is an apology tour.” The camaraderie shared between the two continued to amuse the crowd, illustrating a playful relationship within the industry.

Although Manning did not secure the leading role, he made a brief appearance in the first season, delivering a solitary line that still left an impression. With a comical twist, he remarked, “I was not asked back for season 2,” clearly aware of how his brief stint contrasted with his excitement for a larger part in the series.

In addition to their on-screen involvement, Manning and his brother Peyton act as producers for *Chad Powers*, leveraging their production company, Omaha Productions. This move signifies their continued investment in the realm of entertainment after their illustrious NFL careers.

The origin of the *Chad Powers* concept lies in a viral sketch where Manning, disguised with prosthetics, a wig, and a fake moustache, attempted to go undercover at a Penn State walk-on tryout. This amusing premise provided a fertile ground for expansion into a full series, now featuring Powell as Russ Holliday, a once-promising college quarterback trying to rejuvenate his career under the guise of Chad Powers.

The series has garnered notable acclaim, with Powell receiving a Golden Globe nomination for Best Performance by a Male Actor in a Television Series — Musical or Comedy. Moreover, *Chad Powers* has been recognised at the 2026 GLAAD Media Awards, earning a nomination for Outstanding New TV Series.

With its second season having launched on the same day as the PaleyLive panel, the show is currently available for streaming on Hulu and Disney+. Fans of the series and Manning alike eagerly anticipate how the narrative will develop further and what the future holds for its enthusiastic creators.

In summary, while Manning did not fulfil his dreams of being the lead in *Chad Powers*, his enthusiastic engagement with the project ensures his presence within the creative landscape of television, alongside his brother Peyton. As the series continues to grow in popularity, it seems Manning’s influence will remain, albeit from behind the scenes.